The UNECA Regional Meeting 2024: A Glimpse into Africa’s Sustainable Future
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is set to hold its tenth session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD-10) in Cairo, Egypt, from April 21 to April 23, 20241. This pivotal event will be jointly organized by UNECA and the government of the Arab Republic of Egypt, in collaboration with the African Union Commission, the African Development Bank, and other United Nations system organizations1.
The Forum’s Theme
The theme of ARFSD-10 is “Reinforcing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 2063 and eradicating poverty in times of multiple crises: The effective delivery of sustainable, resilient and innovative solutions”1. This theme underscores the urgency of accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the goals of Agenda 2063, particularly in light of the multiple crises that the world is currently facing1.
Objectives of the Forum
The objectives of ARFSD-10 are to review progress, challenges, and opportunities in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 20631. In line with the 2024 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development (HLPF), ARFSD-10 will conduct an in-depth review of implementation in Africa of SDG 1 (no poverty), SDG 2 (zero hunger), SDG 13 (climate action), SDG 16 (peace, justice, and strong institutions), and SDG 17 (partnerships for the Goals) and the corresponding Goals of Agenda 20631.
Format of the Forum
The forum will be held in a hybrid format, allowing both in-person and virtual participation1. This approach ensures that the forum remains accessible to all stakeholders, regardless of their geographical location or the prevailing health and safety conditions1.
The UNECA Regional Meeting in Egypt promises to be a significant event in the global sustainable development calendar. It offers a platform for African nations and their partners to review progress, share best practices, and chart the way forward towards achieving the SDGs and the goals of Agenda 2063. As the world grapples with multiple crises, the forum’s focus on sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions is both timely and relevant.